Age is a critical predictor of mortality after GI cancer surgery.

In a study of over 21,000 patients age 65+, 6.1% died within 90 days post-surgery (FTR rate 12.3%).
Every additional 5 years of age increased 90-day mortality odds by 40%.
Higher comorbidity and frailty scores also raised mortality risk, but age had the strongest impact.

Surgeons should prioritize risk stratification and optimize preoperative care for older patients to improve outcomes.

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